The holy month brings a mandatory change to office schedules, making UAE Ramadan working hours a critical topic for every private sector employee and employer to understand.

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UAE Ramadan working hours: what’s new?

This section outlines the legal mandate for a two-hour reduction in the daily work schedule for all private sector employees during the holy month.

Under the Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, the UAE Ramadan working hours are not at the employer’s discretion. The UAE labour law requires a mandatory reduction of two hours per day for all staff, regardless of whether they are Muslim or fasting. Failing to implement this reduction is a direct breach of the current labour framework.

Calculating UAE labour laws on overtime

The UAE labour laws on overtime clarifies how additional work hours are treated as overtime once the reduced Ramadan schedule is exceeded.

If an employee works beyond the reduced UAE Ramadan working hours, those extra hours must be compensated. According to UAE labour law on overtime rules, daytime extra work requires a 25% uplift on the basic wage, while nighttime work (9 PM to 4 AM) requires a 50% uplift.

• The Ramadan overtime is calculated based on the employee’s basic wage.
• Daytime hours attract a minimum 25% extra pay.
• Nighttime hours attract a minimum 50% extra pay.
• Work on rest days requires a compensatory day off or a 50% pay uplift.

Official MoHRE Ramadan regulations

This summary explains the role of the Ministry in enforcing work hours and the penalties for non-compliance.

The MoHRE Ramadan regulations state that the reduced workday becomes the new “normal” legal working time. Companies that maintain an 8-hour day without paying overtime face administrative penalties, including significant fines from the Ministry.

• MoHRE has the authority to inspect workplaces for violations.
• The ministry can order corrective measures for unpaid overtime.
• Fines are calculated based on the number of employees affected by the breach.

Understanding Private sector Ramadan rules

This description highlights who the rules apply to and the specific exceptions within different economic zones.

The private sector Ramadan rules apply broadly across the mainland, but there are exceptions for senior executives and maritime crews. Additionally, financial free zones like DIFC or ADGM have their own independent employment regimes that might differ slightly from the federal law.

• Senior executives with decision-making authority are often exempt.
• Maritime crews and shift-based workers may have different rules.
• DIFC regulations specify a six-hour limit specifically for Muslim employees.

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Productivity during Ramadan 2026 working hours

This section discusses how organizations plan for the shorter work window to maintain performance and staff well-being.

Planning for the Ramadan 2026 working hours helps companies manage the fatigue associated with fasting and disrupted sleep. Experts suggest that shorter days actually help employees stay focused, leading to a more empathetic and supportive office atmosphere for the whole team.

• Organizations should build schedules into annual workforce planning.
• Shorter days help offset the physical toll of fasting.
• Empathy in the workplace improves overall team performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is the two-hour reduction mandatory for non-fasting staff? Yes, the UAE Ramadan working hours reduction applies to all private sector employees, regardless of religion or fasting status.
• What should I do if my boss refuses to reduce my hours? You can file an official complaint with MoHRE through their app or call center to report the violation of private sector Ramadan rules.
• Can a company pay a flat rate instead of overtime? No, UAE labour laws on overtime payments are mandatory and cannot be waived by internal company policies or private agreements.
• When does the Ramadan schedule start? The schedule begins on the first day of Ramadan, as announced by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee.

In conclusion, understanding the Ramadan working hours and the UAE labour laws on overtime ensures that both employers and employees stay compliant with the law while fostering a balanced and respectful work environment.

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